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What Do Capitals Do With Kuznetsov? 11 мая 2023 года. The Hockey News. Автор - Sammi Silber The Washington Capitals face a tough decision with regard to Evgeny Kuznetsov, who is reportedly disengaged with the organization. The Washington Capitals face some tough decisions this offseason, and one that's looming larger than others is what to do with Evgeny Kuznetsov, especially after new comments emerged that speculate on the center's lack of interest with the organization. Russian hockey agent and former player Sergei Fedotov spoke on his longtime friend in Kuznetsov, saying on the Russian podcast "Bettman Will Call" that he lacks joy in his game and needs a change in scenery. "I've known Zhenya for a very long time... there are people who are quite disciplined. Zhenya's not in this category," Fedotov said , adding, "Right now, he doesn't have this joy from hockey. And Kuznetsov, without a spark, he's not interested in anything." Kuznetsov is coming off what general manager Brian MacLellan called a disappointing season, as he struggled to find consistency and ended up with 12 goals, 43 assists and a plus-minus of minus-26 through 81 games, a far cry from a standout 2021-22 campaign that saw him bounce back from on-ice and off-ice issues. It was also rumored that No. 92 requested a trade, though he said he was unsure of where those claims came from, adding that the speculation was a product of the media's desire to draw clicks and attention on social media. Looking at his play, ongoing issues and now, new comments that have come to light about his struggles with the team, the Capitals have to ask: what do they do with Kuznetsov? Even though things don't appear to be headed in a great direction right now, the team does have several options to consider, and not all of them result in a divorce. The 30-year-old has two more years on his contract at $7.8 million. He and head coach Peter Laviolette apparently weren't on the same page, as Fedotov also said that Kuznetsov was frustrated with the coach's systems. With a new bench boss, there is the potential that the team could hold onto the star, who has shown his talent and capability to bounce back and see how he performs with a new voice. And, if that doesn't work, a mid-season trade isn't out of the question. Or, as Washington retools on the fly and looks to get younger and faster, MacLellan could choose to part ways with him and ship him out, ignoring the potentially lower trade value and getting some kind of asset in return while pursuing another top center. The Russian and the team appear to be at a crossroads, and it could potentially be beyond repair. That being said, a parting of the ways could be a win-win for both sides, as Washington would get a new piece in the room and work to revamp the top-6 while Kuznetsov would get a change of scenery and second chance elsewhere. A couple of potential landing spots to consider include the Colorado Avalanche, who are without Gabriel Landeskog for the entirety of the 2022-23 season and see J.T. Compher approaching free agency. Kuznetsov could provide some secondary scoring and star-studded playmaking ability, and D.C. could get a decent return given the Avalanche's talent. Another option is Winnipeg. The Jets are looking to change up the core after a disappointingly fast first-round exit, and Mark Scheifele is one member of that group who could benefit from a move. Perhaps a 1-for-1 swap would be beneficial for both parties, as the Capitals would hold onto a top center capable of 50-plus points. Ultimately, Kuznetsov won't be an easy chip to deal on the market. His contract is expensive to take on, and it's possible that his salary would have to be retained or the swap would have to be for a pricy piece in return. Looking at the situation as a whole, there's a lot to consider, and MacLellan has time on his side with the team having a longer offseason than usual. But, with a head coaching vacancy to fill, contracts pending and free agency presenting options, the clock surely is ticking in the District. |
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